Lough Bradan to Gortin

This section boasts some of the most extensive views on the entire Ulster Way as it journeys from the westernmost reaches of County Tyrone into the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. At 37 miles it will be too long for most walkers to contemplate tackling in a single day, but it can be broken down into several more manageable stages, each with its own individual character and scenery.

Accommodation and Useful Facilities

Accommodation and Useful Facilities

Refreshments are available at the finish of the route in Gortin. However this is a long route with no refreshment stops along the way – walkers should carry provisions accordingly.
Kesh offers the widest range of accommodation near the start of this section.
There is also no accommodation along this section of the route so walkers should arrange collection for accommodation off-route in Drumquin or Omagh.
There is a hostel at the finsih of the section in Gortin with a campsite 3 miles to south on B48. Click on an item in the table below for more details and information.

Town, Villages, and Points of Interest

Type

Name

About

Point of Interest

Bessy Bell

Bessy Bell is both distinctive and scenic. The high ...

Bessy Bell is both distinctive and scenic. The high summits of Mullaghcarn (542m) Slieveard (419m) and Bessy Bell (420m) are outliers of the Sperrins Range and are divided by the scenic valley of the River Strule, which flows northwards from Omagh towards the Foyle.

Gortin lies ten miles north of Omagh in the valley of the Owenkillew River, overlooked by the Sperrin moutains. Its population of around 226 people lives in a village heavily dependent on agriculture for its economy, but the village is also developing the tourism potential of this area of rugged beauty and tranquillity.

Tourist attractions in the area include the Gortin Glen Forest Park. Accommodation is available at the local hostel.

Grid Reference

H492859

Town / Village

Gortin Glen Forest Park

Gortin Glen Forest Park is situated six miles North ...

Gortin Glen Forest Park is situated six miles North of Omagh at the Western gateway to the Sperrin mountains. This Forest Park was first opened in 1967 and, embracing some 1534 hectares of ground it has the distinction of being the first Forest Park to be established in a purely coniferous wood land. This forest was originally planted for the sole purpose of timber production.

A major recreational feature of the Forest is the five mile long drive which offers some breathtaking views. A number of vista parks have been created where the motorist can pull in and take time to enjoy the magnificent scenery. The Forest is open every day of the year from 10 am until sunset.

Kilmore Robison is a Fairy Water Bog and has a classic dome structure This site is one of the largest areas of intact active bogs in Northern Ireland with hummock and hollow pool complexes. It is one of the best examples of this habitat type in the UK.

Grid Reference

H306781

Town / Village

Lough Bradan

The area is characterised by valleys and steep ...

The area is characterised by valleys and steep drumlins on the lowlands with a transition to an undulating sandstone plateau. The area retains its historic town land boundary patterns and numerous archaeological features. The Lough its self is well stocked with Brown Trout.

Grid Reference

H214718

Visitor Attraction

Ulster American Folk Park

Immerse yourself in the world famous story of Irish ...

Immerse yourself in the world famous story of Irish emigration at the museum that brings it to life. Follow the emigrant trail as you journey from the thatched cottages of Ulster, on board a full scale emigrant sailing ship leading to the log cabins of the American Frontier. Meet an array of costumed characters on your way with traditional crafts to show, tales to tell and food to share.

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